Hyundai forges alliance with Michelin to develop EV tires

In an effort to enhance competitiveness in the global car market which is moving fast to eco-friendly vehicles, South Korea's leading carmaker Hyundai Motor has forged a strategic alliance with French tiremaker Michelin to develop next-generation tires for electric vehicles by 2020.

An agreement on technological cooperation was signed between Hyundai and Michelin at the French company's research and development center in Clermont-Ferrand. The deal calls for the joint development of all-season tires for electric cars.

The world's fifth-largest carmaker said that Hyundai and Michelin would share know-how and technology to develop new tires aimed at enhancing the performance and fuel efficiency of electric vehicles. They would also expand cooperation n the exchange and education of researchers.

Hyundai has diversified the lineup of hybrid vehicles and electric cars. It is also developing connected car technologies by setting up multiple research and data centers at home and abroad. Hyundai, which unveiled an all-electric car in June last year, plans to launch the electric version of its Kona subcompact SUV in early 2018.